Lemon Loaf Recipe: A Zesty Delight
Are you ready to bake a loaf of sunshine? This lemon loaf recipe is bursting with zesty flavor and is incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. It's moist, tangy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a quick bake.
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For the Loaf:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 2 large lemons)
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
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For the Lemon Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create a delicious lemon loaf:
1. Preparing the Dry Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution throughout the batter.
2. Combining Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crumb. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.
3. Gently Folding:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough loaf. Gently fold in the buttermilk until the batter is smooth.
4. Baking Perfection:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cooling and Glazing:
Let the lemon loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. While the loaf is cooling, prepare the lemon glaze (optional) by whisking together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Tips for Lemon Loaf Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs ensures proper emulsification and a smoother batter.
- Fresh is Best: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will deliver the brightest, most vibrant lemon flavor.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough loaf. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your loaf is ready.
- Storage: Store your lemon loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations and Enhancements:
- Add blueberries or raspberries: Fold in ½ cup of your favorite berries for a delightful twist.
- Use different citrus: Substitute lime or orange zest and juice for a unique flavor profile.
- Add poppy seeds: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
This lemon loaf recipe is a versatile base that you can easily customize to your liking. Enjoy baking and savoring this zesty treat! Remember to share your creations and tag us! #lemonloaf #baking #homemade #recipe #easyrecipe #lemon #delicious
